The best travel credit cards in Canada for 2025
May 14, 2025
Travel credit cards can be one of the best ways to lower the cost of travel, by rewarding you with hotel points, miles and more, just by making everyday purchases. Find the best travel credit cards for 2025 from our carefully chosen selection.
Find Canada’s best cards suited for you in 60 seconds! View cards and offers you’re likely to qualify for without affecting your credit or needing a SIN.
Canada’s best travel credit cards at a glance
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Our methodology: how we choose the best credit cards
Ratehub.ca evaluates the best credit card rewards credit cards by considering overall consumer value and suitability for various types of consumers. Our evaluation methodology incorporates factors such as the card’s annual fee, rewards earning rates, ease-of-use, welcome or promotional offers, approval rates, eligibility criteria, and redemption choices. We have also considered the pros and cons of each card to help you determine which case best suits your financial needs and spending habits.
Best travel credit cards in Canada for 2025 - by category
- Best overall travel credit card and best travel credit card with no foreign exchange fees: Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite
- Honourable mention for best overall travel credit card: American Express Cobalt
- Best premium travel credit card: American Express The Platinum Card
- Best no fee travel credit card: American Express Green Card
- Best travel credit card for travel insurance: Scotiabank Gold American Express Card
- Best travel credit card for overseas spending: Meridian Visa Infinite* Travel Rewards Card
- Best Visa travel credit card: TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite (Also consider: RBC Avion Visa Infinite)
- Best Mastercard travel credit card: BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard
- Best airline travel credit card: TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card
- Best hotel travel credit card: Marriott Bonvoy American Express
Best overall travel credit card and best travel credit card with no foreign exchange fees
Best for Travel perks
based on spending $2,200/mo after $150 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1pt – 3pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
30,000 points (a $300 value)
- Annual fee
$150
Perks of the Scotiabank Passport™ Visa Infinite* Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Includes 6 visits per year | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| Waived foreign transaction fees | Included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | $500,000 per person ($1 million total) | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | $2,000,000 for 25 days (under 65) | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | MSRP of up to $65,000, for 48 days | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Up to $1,500 per person | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Up to $2,500 per person | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Up to $500 coverage per person | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Combined maximum $1,000 | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | Up to $1,000; delays over 4 hours | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Not included | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | $60,000 lifetime limit | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
Ratehub.ca’s 2024 Credit Card Award Winner
- Earn up to $1,300* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 40,000 bonus Scene+ points¹
- Earn 3x Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, Foodland and participating
Co-ops and more - Earn 2x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on other eligible grocery stores, dining, eligible entertainment purchases and eligible daily transit options (including rideshares, buses, subways taxis and more)
- Plus earn 1 Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
- Earn additional benefits + up to 4X Scene+ points for every dollar you spend on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia
- No Foreign Transaction Fee
- 6 Complimentary Airport Lounge Access
- Comprehensive Travel Insurance coverage
- Visa Infinite* Concierge Services
- Visa Infinite* Hotel Collection
- Visa Infinite* Dining and Wine Country program
- Rates, fees and other information are effective as of January 3, 2025. Subject to change.
Ratehub’s take
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite card makes a great vacation companion, designed for Canadians who travel abroad and explore the world. It is one of the few cards that covers foreign transaction fees, and also includes valuable travel benefits like airport lounge access.
Pros
- No foreign transaction fee: Save 2.5% on all non-Canadian currency purchases
- Scene+ points: Earn three Scene+ points per $1 spent at participating grocery stores (e.g., Sobey’s, IGA, and FreshCo) and two Scene+ points per $1 spent on eligible grocery, dining, entertainment, and daily transit purchases
- Flexible redemption: Enjoy flexible point redemption options including for travel, groceries, statement credits, gift cards, and movie tickets
- Airport lounge access: Access airport lounges with six free visits per year to over 1,200 lounges worldwide
- Visa Infinite benefits: Benefit from the Visa Infinite Luxury Hotel Collection, Visa Infinite Dining series, and complimentary Avis Preferred Plus membership
- Comprehensive travel insurance: Enjoy coverage for emergency medical, trip cancellation/interruption, flight delays, and more
Cons
- Annual fee: The annual fee of $150 is higher than some comparable cards
- Low point return: The earn rate for certain spending categories like dining and entertainment is lower compared to other cards
- Consistent point values: Travel points are always worth one cent per point and you can’t transfer your points to other airline rewards programs like you can with some Amex cards
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: $60,000/yr
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 20.99%
Cash advance: 22.99%
Balance transfer: 22.99%
Honourable mention for best overall travel credit card
Best for Groceries & dining
based on spending $2,200/mo after $156 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1pt – 5pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
15,000 points (a $150 value)
- Annual fee
$156
Perks of the American Express Cobalt® Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| Waived foreign transaction fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | $250,000 | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | $5,000,000 for first 15 days (under 65) | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | MSRP of up to $85,000, for 48 days | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Not included | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Not included | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | $500; delays 4 hours or more | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | $500 per trip for all persons | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | $500; delays 6 hours or more | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Up to $1,000 for 90 days | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Up to $1,000 for 90 days | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- In your first year as a new Cobalt Cardmember, you can earn 1,250 Membership Rewards® points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $750 in net purchases on your Card. This could add up to 15,000 points in a year. That’s up to $150 towards a weekend getaway or concert tickets
- Earn 5x the points on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery. Spend cap applies.
- Earn 3X the points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada
- Earn 2X the points on eligible ride shares, transit & gas in Canada
- Earn 1 additional point on eligible hotel and car rental bookings via American Express Travel Online
- Earn 1X point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else
- Enjoy access to hotel bookings, a room upgrade (when available), 12pm check-in and late check-out (when available), and up to $100 USD hotel credit to use on amenities when charged to the room for a stay of 2 or more consecutive nights through The Hotel Collection from American Express Travel
- Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs
- Cobalt Cardmembers receive regular Perks such as bonus reward offers and access to great events
- Access Front Of The Line® Amex Presale & Reserved Tickets to some of your favourite concerts and theatre performances and special offers and events curated for Cardmembers with Amex ExperiencesTM
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Ratehub’s take
The American Express Cobalt is one of Canada’s best travel credit cards. If you’re looking for a versatile credit card that rewards both everyday spending and travel, the American Express Cobalt is an ideal choice. Cardholders can enjoy strong travel insurance, a generous welcome offer, and flexible point redemption options.
Pros
- Exceptional point earning: 5x the points on eligible restaurant and food delivery, 3x the points on eligible streaming services, 2x the points on ride shares, transit and gas. The earning potential for restaurants and takeout is significantly higher than most other cards
- Flexible point redemption: Travelers can choose from three ways to use their points: points 1:1 to several valuable loyalty programs including Aeroplan, use the Fixed Points Program to simplify redemptions regardless of travel dates, or use points for statement credits at a rate of 1 point = 1 cent. Or, redeem Membership Rewards for travel, gift cards, merchandise, or purchases
- Exclusive access: Enjoy privileges such as Front of the Line Presale and Reserved tickets to concerts, theatre performances, movie screenings, culinary events, and other special offers
- Comprehensive travel insurance: Benefit from a strong travel insurance package, including up to $5,000,000 in travel emergency medical
- No additional fee for authorized users: Add authorized users for no extra cost (an average fee of $30-50 on other comparable cards)
Cons
- Monthly fee: A monthly fee of $12.99 (totalling an annual fee of $156, which is higher than most other rewards cards)
- Limited acceptance: American Express isn’t as widely accepted in Canada compared to Visa and Mastercard
- Travel insurance age limitations: The travel insurance package does not cover trip cancellation or medical coverage for cardholders over the age of 65
- Lack of airport lounge access: Frequent travellers may be disappointed as this card does not offer access to airport lounges
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: N/A
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 21.99%
Cash advance: 21.99%
Balance transfer: N/A
Best premium travel credit card
Best for Premium perks
based on spending $3,500/mo after $799 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1pt – 2pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
100,000 points (a $1,000 value)
- Anniversary bonus
30,000 points (a $300 value)
- Annual fee
$799
Perks of the American Express® The Platinum Card®
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Complimentary access; 1,400 lounges | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| Waived foreign transaction fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | $500,000 per person | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | $5,000,000 for first 15 days (under 65) | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | MSRP of up to $85,000, for 48 days | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | $2,500 per person, $5,000 per trip | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | $2,500 per person, $6,000 per trip | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Up to $1,000; delays over 4 hours | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Combined maximum $1,000 | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | Up to $1,000; delays of 6 hours or more | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Not included | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Up to $1,000 within 120 days | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Ratehub.ca’s 2023 Award Winner – Best Perks Credit Card
- Unlock special experiences with the Platinum Card®
- Earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® points – that’s up to $1,000 towards a weekend away
- New Platinum® Cardmembers, earn 70,000 Welcome Bonus points after you charge $10,000 in net purchases to your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership
- Plus, earn 30,000 points when you make a purchase between 14 and 17 months of Cardmembership
- Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada, 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel, and 1 point for every $1 in all other Card purchases
- Access a $200 Annual Travel Credit through American Express Travel Online or Platinum® Card Travel Service
- Enjoy a $200 Annual Dining Credit at some of Canada’s best restaurants
- Unlock $200 or more in additional value with Member extras. You can earn statement credits for qualifying purchases with participating brands
- Take full advantage of The American Express Global Lounge CollectionTM which unlocks access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide. This includes The Centurion® Lounge network, Plaza Premium Lounges, and hundreds of other domestic and international lounges designed to enhance your travel experience
- Enjoy flexible ways to use your points such as statement credits for any eligible purchase charged to your Card, new travel purchases booked on American Express Travel Online through the Flexible Points Travel Program, and eligible flights through the Fixed Points Travel Program
- Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs
- Enjoy complimentary benefits that offer an average value of $600 USD at over 1,500 extraordinary properties worldwide when you book Fine Hotels + Resorts
- Platinum Cardmembers can enjoy access to special events and unique opportunities
- Enjoy premium benefits at the Toronto Pearson Airport
- You will also have access to many leading hotel and car rental companies’ loyalty programs. Our partners include Marriott International, Hilton Hotels and Resorts, Hertz and Avis
- Interest applies in accordance with your Cardmember Agreement, Information Box, and Disclosure statement if the total New Balance is not paid by the Payment Due Date each month. All payments must be received by the Payment Due Date shown on the monthly statement
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment
Ratehub’s take
While the American Express Platinum card’s annual fee is steep, the premium travel perks arguably outweigh the cost to use it. You’ll enjoy free, unlimited airport lounge access (while most other cards only offer a free membership or a few passes per year), hotel upgrades, a valuable annual travel and dining credit, and more.
Pros
- Unlimited lounge access: Enjoy free, unlimited lounge visits at over 1,400 lounges across the world with the
- American Express Global lounge collection
- Strong travel insurance offering: Includes everything from out-of-province emergency medical to $500,000 travel accident insurance
- Stretch your points values further: Transfer points to other travel loyalty programs at a 1:1 ratio for increased value and flexibility
- Upgraded gold hotel status with Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors and deals on car rentals through American Express Online
Cons
- Very high annual fee
- Doesn’t waive foreign transaction fees, which can really add up when you’re traveling
- This is a charge card, so you’ll have to pay off whatever you spend in full each month or face a high interest rate
- American Express isn’t as widely accepted in Canada compared to Visa and Mastercard
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: $30,000/yr
Interest rates
Purchase interest: N/A
Cash advance: N/A
Balance transfer: N/A
Best no fee travel credit card
based on spending $2,200/mo after $0 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1pt / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
10,000 points (a $100 value)
- Annual fee
$0
Perks of the American Express® Green Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| Waived foreign transaction fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | Not included | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | Not included | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | Not included | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Not included | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Not included | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Not included | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Not included | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | Not included | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Not included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Not included | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Up to $1,000 within 90 days | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Get the Card that lets you live in the moment while getting ready for the future
- The American Express® Green Card lets you go for it with every swipe or tap of your Card
- As a new American Express® Green Cardmember, you can earn a Welcome Bonus of 10,000 Membership Rewards® points when you charge $1,000 in purchases to your Card in the first 3 months of Cardmembership. That’s $100 towards groceries or concert tickets.
- Earn 1x the points on Card purchases
- Charge an eligible purchase to your Card and redeem your Membership Rewards points for a statement credit (All eligible purchases: 1,000 points = $10 statement credit)
- Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs
- With Amex ExperiencesTM and Front Of The Line® Amex Presale Tickets, American Express Cardmembers get access to amazing events in Canada
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply
Ratehub’s take
The American Express Green Card takes the crown for best no-fee travel credit card due to its attractive welcome bonus, quickly-earned points on travel purchases, easy redemption, and other travel-related perks.
Pros
- No annual fee: Enjoy the card’s travel benefits without an annual fee
- Double points on travel: Effectively double your points when booking travel through American Express Travel
- Flexible redemption options: Redeem points for travel, gift cards, merchandise, everyday purchases, or eligible purchases at Amazon.ca
- Transferable points: Transfer your points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and loyalty programs like Aeroplan and Marriott Bonvoy, making it easier to save on flights and accommodations while abroad
Cons
- Low standard earn rate: The standard earn rate of one point per $1 may not be as competitive as other no-fee rewards cards
- Limited insurance coverage: The insurance package includes extended warranty and purchase protection only, lacking some travel coverage offered by other no-fee credit cards
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: N/A
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 21.99%
Cash advance: 21.99%
Balance transfer: N/A
Best travel credit card for travel insurance
Best for Groceries & dining
based on spending $2,200/mo after $120 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1pt – 6pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
45,000 points (a $450 value)
- Annual fee
$120
Perks of the Scotiabank®* Gold American Express® Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| Waived foreign transaction fees | Included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | $500,000 per person | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | $1,000,000 for 25 days (under 65) | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | MSRP of up to $65,000, for 48 days | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Up to $1,500 per person | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Up to $1,500 per person | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Up to $500 coverage per person | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Up to $1,000; delays over 4 hours | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | Up to $1,000; delays over 4 hours | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Up to $1,000 per occurence | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Covered for 90 days | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Earn up to $780* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 40,000 bonus Scene+ points.¹
- Earn 6x Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
- Earn 5x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions
- Earn 5x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
- Earn 3x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
- Earn 3x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
- Plus earn 1 Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
- Earn additional benefits + up to 4X Scene+ points for every dollar you spend on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia
- No Foreign Transaction Fee
- Comprehensive Travel Insurance coverage
- AMEX Offers®
- AMEX Front of the Line®
- American Express Invites®
- Complimentary Concierge Services
- Rates, fees and other information are effective as of January 3, 2025. Subject to change.
Ratehub’s take
The Scotiabank Gold American Express Card earns an honourable mention as one of the best overall travel credit cards for the outstanding benefits it offers to cardholders. This card stands out as a top choice, thanks to its exceptional return on spending and a variety of travel-related perks. This card is particularly useful for those who dine out often, travel, and enjoy entertainment.
Pros
- No foreign exchange fee: Save on foreign currency purchases while travelling abroad or shopping online, as this card doesn’t charge the typical 2.5% foreign transaction fee
- Extensive insurance coverage: Enjoy comprehensive travel insurance, including the $1 million travel medical insurance, which lasts for 25 days and is one of the longer coverage periods available on the market
- High return on spending: Earn five points per $1 spent on groceries, restaurants, food delivery, and entertainment – one of the best in class multipliers in the market. Earn three points per $1 spent on gas and transit expenses
Cons
- Limited acceptance: American Express isn’t as widely accepted in Canada compared to Visa and Mastercard
- Annual Fee: This card carries an annual fee of $120
- Fixed point values: Although earn rates are high, travel points are always worth one cent per point and you can’t transfer your points to other airline rewards programs like you can with other cards
- Airport lounge access is not free: Although you’ll get a discount on a Priority Pass membership for airport lounge access, lounge visits aren’t included with the card
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: $12,000/yr
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 20.99%
Cash advance: 22.99%
Balance transfer: 22.99%
Best travel credit card for overseas spending
Best for Foreign currency transactions
based on spending $2,200/mo after $99 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1.5pts – 3pts / dollar spent
- Annual fee
$99 $0 first year waived
Perks of the Meridian Visa Infinite* Travel Rewards Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| Waived foreign transaction fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | Up to $1,000,000 of coverage per person in the event of the accidental death or injury of you, your spouse or eligible children while passengers on a common carrier (air, sea or ground). | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | Coverage of up to $5,000,000 per insured person per trip for eligible medical care and services required, including transportation, repatriation, living expenses and dental care. Duration of coverage for each trip is dependent on the insured’s age, up to a maximum age of 75, and for up to 48 days. | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | Coverage for rental periods of up to 48 consecutive days in the event your rental vehicle is damaged or stolen when you charge the full cost of your rental to your card and decline the rental agency’s collision/loss damage waiver. | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Up to $2,000 of coverage per person if the trip is cancelled prior to departure for a covered cause. In the event of trip interruption/delay after departure coverage is for up to $2,000 for missed connections and unlimited coverage if due to illness or accident. | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Up to $2,000 of coverage per person if the trip is cancelled prior to departure for a covered cause. In the event of trip interruption/delay after departure coverage is for up to $2,000 for missed connections and unlimited coverage if due to illness or accident. | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Up to $2,000 of coverage per person if the trip is cancelled prior to departure for a covered cause. In the event of trip interruption/delay after departure coverage is for up to $2,000 for missed connections and unlimited coverage if due to illness or accident. | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Coverage of up to $500 per person per trip for replacement of essential items in the event of delayed baggage and up to $1,000 per person per trip in the event of loss, theft or damage to checked baggage. | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | Coverage of up to $500 per person per trip for replacement of essential items in the event of delayed baggage and up to $1,000 per person per trip in the event of loss, theft or damage to checked baggage. | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Not included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Coverage of up to $1,000 in the event your cell phone, smartphone or tablet is lost, stolen, accidentally damaged or experiences mechanical breakdown. | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Provides coverage for 90 days from the purchase date in the event of loss, theft or damage when you purchase eligible items with your card. Maximum of $10,000 per item up to a maximum of $50,000 lifetime per account. | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Coverage automatically doubles the original manufacturer’s warranty for up to a maximum of one additional year for eligible items purchased with your card. Maximum of $10,000 per item up to a maximum of $50,000 lifetime per account. | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Reimbursement of the price difference if a new eligible item purchased with your card is found advertised at a lower price in Canada within 60 days of purchase, up to $100 per item and $500 per account per year. | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- For a limited time, apply for a Meridian Visa* and get 7,000 bonus points
- Between March 1 and May 31, 2025 you’ll get 7,000 rewards points† with ANY new Meridian Visa* card
- $99 annual fee for primary, $30 for additional cardholders. Annual fee is waived for the first year
- Earn 6 rewards points for every $2 spent on purchases made outside Canada in foreign currencies
- Earn 3 rewards points for every $2 spent on all other card purchases
- 19.50% APR on purchases, 21.99% APR on cash advances
- Points earned can be redeemed for account credit, merchandise, gift cards or travel
Eligibility requirements
Minimum income: $60,000/yr
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 19.50%
Cash advance: 21.99%
Balance transfer: N/A
Best Visa travel credit card
Best for Travel
based on spending $2,200/mo after $139 annual fee
- Earn rewards
2pts – 8pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
135,000 points (a $675 value)
- Annual fee
$139 $0 first year waived
Perks of the TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| Waived foreign transaction fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | Included | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | Included | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | Included | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Included | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Included | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Included | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Included | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | Included | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Included | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Included | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Included | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Not included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Earn up to $1,250 in value, including up to 135,000 TD Rewards Points, no Annual Fee for the first year† and additional travel benefits. Conditions Apply. Offer effective as of April 30, 2025.
- Earn a welcome Bonus of 20,000 TD Rewards Points when you make your first Purchase with your Card†.
- Earn 115,000 TD Rewards Points when you spend $5,000 within 180 days of Account opening†.
- Earn a Birthday Bonus of 10% of the TD Rewards Points you have earned over the past year, up to a maximum of 10,000 TD Rewards points†.
- Get an annual TD Travel Credit† of $100 when you book at Expedia® For TD†.
- Get an Annual Fee Rebate for the first year†.
- Enjoy your time at the airport with global airport lounge access and 4 complimentary lounge visits with Visa Airport Companion Program (a value of up to $277)†.
- To receive the first-year annual fee rebate for the Primary Cardholder, you must activate your Card and make your first Purchase on the Account within the first 3 months after Account opening. To receive the Additional Cardholder(s) first-year annual fee rebate, you must add your Additional Cardholder(s) while the offer is in effect.
- Starbucks Bonus Offer for New Linked Members†: Link your TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite to earn 600 Starbucks Stars and redeem them for free Starbucks treats. Limited time only. Conditions and restrictions apply.
- Earn TD Reward Points on all the things you normally do, whether you use your card for groceries, dining, paying bills or booking travel. The rewards will add up quickly so you can enhance your travel experience or enjoy a wide variety of rewards.
- Your Card also allows you to enjoy:
- An annual TD Travel Credit† of $100 when you book at Expedia® For TD†.
- Take a break at the airport and relax in one of the 1,200+ global lounges before you take off – enjoy your 4 complimentary visits by enrolling now for the Visa Airport Companion Program†.
- TD Rewards Birthday bonus† that helps you celebrate your special day.
- An extensive suite of travel insurance coverages which helps you travel prepared
- No travel blackouts†, no seat restrictions† and no expiry† for your TD Rewards Points as long as your account is open and in good standing.
- Redeem your TD Rewards Points towards making purchases at Amazon.ca with Amazon Shop with Points. Conditions apply.
- Earn 8 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend when you book travel through Expedia® For TD†
- Earn 6 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend on Groceries, Dining, and Public Transit†
- Earn 4 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend on Recurring Bill Payments and Streaming, Digital Gaming & Media†
- Earn 2 TD Rewards Points For every $1 you spend on other Purchases made using your Card† plus earn an annual Birthday Bonus† of up to 10,000 TD Rewards Points
- †Terms and conditions apply.
- Financial institutions pay us for connecting them with customers, including by paying for advertisements, clicks, or when someone applies for/is approved for a product. Terms and conditions apply between you and the provider of the product – please be sure to review them. Product information and details vary for Quebec. The content provided on our site is for information only; it is not meant to be relied on or used in lieu of advice from a professional. Partners/Advertisers are not responsible for the accuracy of information on our site. However, not all products we list are tied to compensation for us. Our industry-leading education centres and calculators are available 24/7, free of charge, and with no obligation to purchase. To learn more, visit our About us page.
Ratehub’s take
The TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite is your passport to travel rewards, offering flexible redemption options and value for frequent travellers looking for a Visa credit card with travel points.
Pros
- Flexible redemption: Redeem points on flights, hotels, car rentals and more through Expedia for TD, with points redeemable in increments as low as one dollar
- Exclusive offers: Enjoy 10% off car rentals from select Avis and Budget locations, an annual discount to Priority Pass Memberships
- Extensive travel package: Enjoy comprehensive travel insurance, including emergency travel medical (up to $2 million), trip cancellation/interruption, and more
- TD Travel Credit: Receive an annual TD Travel Credit of $100 when you book at Expedia for TD
Cons
- Income requirement: A minimum personal income of $60,000 and $139 annual fee may limit eligibility for some users
- Low point value: The average dollar value of one TD Reward point is $0.005, which is low compared to other travel credit cards
- Low earn rate for specific categories: Other cards offer high point values for specific spending categories like dining and entertainment
- No complimentary airport lounge access: While there’s no complimentary airport lounge access, users can benefit from a 20% discount on Priority Pass membership
- No waived foreign transaction fees: Foreign transaction fees are not waived, so consider this if you plan to use the card for shopping abroad
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: $60,000/yr
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 21.99%
Cash advance: 22.99%
Balance transfer: 22.99%
Also consider
based on spending $2,200/mo after $120 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1pt – 1.25pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
55,000 points (a $1,178 value)
- Annual fee
$120
Perks of the RBC Avion Visa Infinite
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| Waived foreign transaction fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | $500,000 per person | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | Unlimited for first 15 days | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | MSRP of up to $65,000, for 48 days | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Not included | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Up to $5,000 per person | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | $250 per person; 4 hours or more | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Included | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | $500 per person; 4 hours or more | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Up to $1,500 per occurence | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Covered for 90 days | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Get 35,000 Welcome Points on approval and 20,000 bonus points when you spend $5,000 in your first 6 months*. Apply by June 11, 2025. Apply online and get a response in as little as 60 seconds.
- Earn 1 Avion point for every dollar you spend* and an extra 25% on eligible travel purchases.
- Avioners can book flights with points on any airline, on any flight, at any time, early or last minute, with no blackout periods or restrictions.
- Avioners earn points that never expire so your points will be waiting for your next adventure.
- Redeem your points for travel and more. Use points for anything from paying bills and paying your card balance to redeeming for Gift Cards and Merchandise at top brands like Apple. The Avion Rewards program gives you the freedom of choice to use your points your way, and helps you make the most as an Avioner.
- Eligible Avion rewards members can also convert points to other loyalty programs including WestJet dollars, British Airways Avios points and Hudson’s Bay Rewards points.
- Link your RBC card with a Petro-Points membership to instantly save 3₵ per litre on fuel at Petro-Canada stations and earn 20% more Petro-Points and 20% more Avion points
- Link your RBC card with a Rexall Be Well account and get 50 Be Well points for every $1 spent on eligible products at Rexall. Redeem Be Well points faster for savings in store on eligible purchases where 25,000 Be Well points = $10
- Get $0 delivery fees for 12 months from DoorDash^
- Add your eligible RBC credit card to your DoorDash account to:
- Get a 12-month complimentary DashPass subscription± – a value of almost $120
- Enjoy unlimited deliveries with $0 delivery fees on orders of $15 or more when you pay with your eligible RBC credit card
Ratehub’s take
The RBC Avion Visa Infinite credit card is a versatile travel credit card that offers flexible rewards for frequent flyers. With a strong emphasis on travel perks and a valuable rewards program, it’s an excellent option for travellers looking to elevate their experience.
Pros
- Flexible travel redemption: This card provides unparalleled choice when it comes to redeeming points as it does not have blackout dates or seat restrictions. You can book flights, hotels, car rentals, and more with your points
- Comprehensive travel insurance: Benefit from extensive travel insurance coverage most notably including trip cancellation and interruption and emergency medical. Travel with peace of mind knowing you are protected
- Exclusive concert access: Enjoy exclusive access to concert tickets, like the highly sought-after Taylor Swift Eras concert. With this perk, you’ll have the opportunity to secure tickets before they are available to the general public.
Cons
- Annual fee: This card comes with an annual fee of $120 which may be high for some. However, for frequent travelers who take full advantage of the card’s perks, the benefits can often outweigh the cost.
- No waived foreign transaction fees: Foreign transaction fees are not waived, so consider this if you plan to use the card for shopping abroad
- Low earn rate: The standard earn rate of 1 point per $1 may not be as competitive as other travel credit cards
Eligibility requirements
Minimum income: $60,000/yr
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 20.99%
Cash advance: 22.99%
Balance transfer: 22.99%
Best Mastercard travel credit card
Best for Travel perks
based on spending $2,200/mo after $150 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1pt – 5pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
100,000 points (a $667 value)
- Annual fee
$150
Perks of the BMO Ascend™ World Elite®* Mastercard®*
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Includes 4 visits per year | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| Waived foreign transaction fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | $500,000 per person | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | $5,000,000 for first 21 days (under 65) | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | MSRP of up to $65,000, for 48 days | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Up to $1,500 per person | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Up to $2,000 per person | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Up to $2,000 per person | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | $500; delays 6 hours or more | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | $500; delays 6 hours or more | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Not included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Not included | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Covered for 90 days | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Welcome offer: Get up to 100,000 points and the annual fee waived in your first anniversary for both the primary cardholder and authorized users.*
- 5x the points for every $1 spent on eligible travel purchases,* 3x the points for every $1 spent on eligible dining and entertainment purchases and recurring bill payments,* 1 point for every $1 spent everywhere else.*
- Unforgettable travel experiences start with our premium flexible travel credit card!
- Complimentary membership in Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass,* with four annual complimentary passes.
- Access over 1 million Wi-Fi hotspots around the world – all at no added cost, and no added fees or roaming charges*
- Get valuable benefits and offers for digital everyday services from a variety of on-demand apps and subscription services
- Points you can use to cover all flight charges & taxes*
- Fly on any airline, with no blackout dates*
- Best-in-class travel and medical insurance (unlimited trips per year)*
- Unlock Mastercard Travel Rewards cashback offers when you travel and shop outside of Canada
- Cash Advance & Balance Transfer Interest: 21.99% for Quebec residents
- BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information
- *Terms and conditions apply
- †Statement based on a comparison of the redeemable value of the non-promotional travel rewards points earned on premium flexible Canadian credit cards as of May 3, 2022. “Flexible” is defined as points earned when you purchase travel anywhere and “premium” refers to cards with an annual fee of ≤ $150 or has an income requirement of ≤ $150,000 annual individual income.
Ratehub’s take
The BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard is a top choice among seasoned travellers, particularly those who prefer a Mastercard, and who like to frequently fly and dine out. This card offers a suite of perks that cater to travel enthusiasts.
Pros
- Earn points: Earn three points per $1 spent on restaurant, entertainment purchases, and recurring bills, and one point per $1 spent on everything else
- Comprehensive insurance package: Recognized for one of the best insurance packages in the market, including $5 million in out-of-country insurance, exceeding the standard $1 million in coverage offered by most other cards
- 24/7 concierge services: Enjoy around-the-clock concierge services for your travel needs
- Airport lounge access: Receive complimentary membership in Mastercard Travel Pass, including four annual complimentary passes
- Redemption flexibility: Enhanced flexibility to redeem points for flights on virtually any airline with no blackout dates (points can be used to cover taxes and fees as well)
Cons
- Income requirements: The card’s minimum personal income of $80,000 may limit accessibility for some users
- Lower point value: While BMO points are flexible, they are worth less than other travel rewards programs (usually around 1 cent per point) at 0.67 cents per point
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 760
Minimum income: $80,000/yr
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 21.99%
Cash advance: 23.99%
Balance transfer: 23.99%
Best airline travel credit card
Best for Aeroplan Points
based on spending $2,200/mo after $139 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1pt – 1.5pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
25,000 points (a $660 value)
- Anniversary bonus
15,000 points (a $396 value)
- Annual fee
$139 $0 first year waived
Perks of the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| Waived foreign transaction fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | Included | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | Included | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | Included | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Included | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Included | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Included | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Included | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | Included | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Not included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Included | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Included | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Included | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Not included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Earn up to $1,300 in value†, including up to 40,000 Aeroplan points†, no annual fee for the first year† and additional travel benefits. Conditions Apply. Offer effective as of January 7, 2025.
- Earn a welcome bonus of 10,000 Aeroplan points when you make your first Purchase with your new Card†
- Earn 15,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $7,500 within 180 days of Account opening†
- Plus, earn a one-time anniversary bonus of 15,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $12,000 within 12 months of Account opening†
- Apply for the NEXUS program and once every 48 months get an application fee rebate (up to $100 CAD)†.
- Plus, share free first checked bags with up to 8 travel companions†
- Get an annual fee rebate for the first year†.
- To receive the first-year annual fee rebate, you must activate your Card and make your first Purchase on the Account within the first 3 months after Account opening and you must add your Additional Cardholders while this offer is in effect.
- Starbucks Bonus Offer for New Linked Members†: Link your TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite to earn 600 Starbucks Stars and redeem them for free Starbucks treats. Limited time only. Conditions and restrictions apply.
- Earn Aeroplan Points on your everyday purchases
- Complimentary Visa Infinite* Concierge service† available 24/7
- †Terms and conditions apply.
- Financial institutions pay us for connecting them with customers, including by paying for advertisements, clicks, or when someone applies for/is approved for a product. Terms and conditions apply between you and the provider of the product – please be sure to review them. Product information and details vary for Quebec. The content provided on our site is for information only; it is not meant to be relied on or used in lieu of advice from a professional. Partners/Advertisers are not responsible for the accuracy of information on our site. However, not all products we list are tied to compensation for us. Our industry-leading education centres and calculators are available 24/7, free of charge, and with no obligation to purchase. To learn more, visit our About us page.
Ratehub’s take
For Aeroplan clients and frequent Air Canada fliers, the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite card offers exceptional benefits for earning more points to redeem on airline travel.
Pros
- Aeroplan redemption: Redeem Aeroplan points for flights on Air Canada or over 27 Star Alliance member airlines, including United Airlines and Lufthansa, to name a few
- Air Canada perks: Access Air Canada perks, including the first bag checked free for the primary cardholder and up to eight travel companions, potentially saving up to $30 per traveller on flights across Canada and the US. Plus, earn credits towards achieving elite airline status
- Nexus Membership reimbursement: Receive up to $100 in Nexus Membership reimbursements every 48 months, making for smoother cross-border travel within Canada or to the US
- Comprehensive travel insurance: Enjoy a strong travel insurance package, including up to 21 days of out-of-province/country medical emergency coverage, flight delay insurance, lost/delayed baggage insurance, and even hotel/motel burglary insurance for stays within the US and Canada
- Double Aeroplan points: Get double the Aeroplan points when using this card along with your Aeroplan card at participating retailers
Cons
- Annual fee: The card’s annual fee is $139, which is slightly higher than the $120 typically found on comparable rewards cards
- Complex points program: The Aeroplan points program isn’t the most straightforward, and it can take some effort to understand how to best maximize points. Note that Aeroplan points can only be redeemed on Air Canada and Star Alliance Members
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 660
Minimum income: $60,000/yr
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 21.99%
Cash advance: 22.99%
Balance transfer: 22.99%
Best hotel travel credit card
Best for Hotel stays
based on spending $2,200/mo after $120 annual fee
- Earn rewards
2pts – 5pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
95,000 points (a $1,111 value)
- Anniversary bonus
15,000 points (a $176 value)
- Annual fee
$120
Perks of the The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| Waived foreign transaction fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | $500,000 per person | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | Not included | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | MSRP of up to $85,000, for 48 days | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Not included | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Not included | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | $500; delays 4 hours or more | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | $500 per trip for all persons | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | $500; delays 6 hours or more | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Not included | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Up to $1,000 for 90 days | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Experience Amex’s best offer this year on the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card
- New Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Cardmembers earn up to 110,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points
- Earn 65,000 points after you spend $3,000 on your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership.1
- Earn an additional 30,000 points after you spend a total of $20,000 on your card in your first 12 months of Cardmembership.1*
- Plus, earn 15,000 points when you make a purchase between 15 and 17 months of Cardmembership.1*
- Offer ends August 18, 2025.
- Earn 5 points for every dollar in eligible Card purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®
- Earn 2 points for every $1 in all other Card purchases
- Receive an Annual Free Night Award for up to 35,000 points at eligible hotels and resorts worldwide every year after your first anniversary
- No annual fee on Additional Cards
- Redeem points for free nights with no blackout dates at over 7,000 of the world’s most desired hotels
- Automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status membership
- Receive 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card. These can be used towards attaining the next level of Elite status in the Marriott Bonvoy program
- Enjoy an automatic upgrade to Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status when you reach $30,000 in purchases on the Card each year or when you combine 10 qualifying paid nights within one calendar year with the 15 Elite Night Credits from your card
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment
Ratehub’s take
The Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card is tailor-made for hotel rewards, making it an excellent choice for frequent travellers who want to stay in style. It’s one of the best travel credit cards in Canada.
Pros
- Extensive hotel network: Access more than 7,000 hotels worldwide under the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program
- Annual free night: Enjoy an annual free night’s accommodation at any Marriott Bonvoy hotel
- Silver Elite status: Receive complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status, which can get you exclusive discounted rates and higher points earn rates
- Points earning: Earn five Bonvoy points for every $1 spent on eligible card purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program, and two Bonvoy points per dollar on all other card purchases
- Versatile redemption: Redeem points for free nights at more than two dozen hotel brands, including Marriott, Starwood Hotels and Resorts, W Hotels, St. Regis, Ritz Carlton, Sheraton and Delta
Cons
- Travel insurance limitations: The card does not include travel emergency medical insurance within its insurance package
- Points worth less for flights: While you can transfer your Marriott Bonvoy points to other flight reward programs, they are worth less at a ratio of 3 points = $1
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: N/A
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 21.99%
Cash advance: 21.99%
Balance transfer: N/A
Travel credit cards: frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is the best credit card for travel points?
When it comes to the best credit card for travel points, our pick would be either the American Express Cobalt or the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite card.
The American Express Cobalt is the perfect choice for a rewards card that delivers for both everyday spending and travel. The card offers a flexible point redemption system, strong travel insurance policy, and a generous welcome bonus. With its top-notch rewards system, cardholders earn 5 times the points on eligible restaurants and food delivery purchases, 3 times the points on eligible streaming services, and 2 times the points on travel and daily transit in Canada.
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite card is the ultimate travel credit card, with valuable benefits that set it apart from others. With no foreign transaction fees, its one of the few Canadian credit cards that save you 2.5% on all your foreign purchases. Plus, it comes packed with perks!
Do travel credit card rewards expire?
Travel credit card rewards can expire with most airline or hotel loyalty programs having a defined 12 to 24 month expiry date. The good news is that this only applies if there has been no account activity during that time. It can be wise to consider getting a credit card that will continue to earn you points for your preferred airline or hotel, preventing your account from being inactive.
How do I maximize my travel credit card's rewards?
There’s more to making the most of your travel credit card than just charging all of your purchases on it. To maximize your travel credit card benefits, follow these steps:
- Pay off your balance in full each and every month to avoid interest charges. The perks and bonuses of a travel credit card won’t make up for the potential interest charges. If you consistently carry a balance, a low interest credit card or one with a generous balance transfer option would likely be a better fit.
- Use your points for travel redemptions to get the most value. Though you can often use points for statement credits, merchandise or gift cards, these options typically offer less value for your points than they would if redeemed for flight or hotel redemptions.
- Take advantage of double-dipping by earning additional rewards from airline or hotel loyalty programs when you use your travel credit card. For example, if you carry an Aeroplan credit card, you’ll earn bonus miles when shopping on the Aeroplan Estore, super-charging your point accumulation.
What credit score do you need to get a travel credit card?
For most credit cards, a credit score of at least 600 is required to qualify, while the best travel credit cards may require Very Good scores (740 and above). If you have a low credit score, consider a secured credit card that offers rewards.
Everything you need to know about travel credit cards
How do travel cards work?
Fundamentally, all travel credit cards in Canada work the same way: for each dollar you spend on the card, you earn points or miles that can be redeemed to partially or fully cover travel expenses. The more you spend, the more points or miles you earn, allowing you to maximize your travel savings.
However, outside of these fundamental aspects, the details around reward redemption and the value of each point or mile can differ depending on the specific credit card and its rewards program. We touch on some of the major differences between credit card travel programs below.
Why get a travel card?
Travel credit cards can save you money on travel expenses through the collection and redemption of points or miles. The points or miles you collect by using these cards for everyday purchases can be exchanged for discounts on flights, accommodations, and car rentals (just to name a few). Not only that, but some travel credit cards also come with added perks such as VIP airport lounge access, complimentary checked baggage, and priority boarding.
In addition, travel credit cards often carry extensive insurance benefits, including (but not limited to) flight interruption/cancellation, baggage loss/delay, emergency medical, and car rental collision loss/damage.
How to choose the best travel credit card
With Canadians enjoying more choice thanks to an ever-growing array of travel credit cards, it can be overwhelming to figure out how to pick the one that works best for you. Luckily, by educating yourself about a few key features, it can be easier to select the card that matches your needs and spending habits the most. Here are some important things to consider:
Sign-up bonus
- While bigger is generally better when it comes to sign-up bonuses, consider whether the card is the right fit for you in the long run. Simply put, don’t let an offer alone sway you into picking a particular card since you’ll likely keep it even after the offer ends.
- You’ll also want to get familiar with the terms of the sign-up offer, as you may need to hit a minimum spend within a specific time frame in order to qualify for the bonus (i.e. making at least $1,000 in purchases on the card within the first three months of opening your account)
Earn rate
There are two kinds of earn rates:
- Base earn rate that offers the same number of points across the board for all types of spending – ideal for those who prefer simplicity and whose spending doesn’t skew to particular categories.
- Bonus earn rate that offers a higher return on specific categories like gas, groceries, or dining. To maximize rewards, you should ensure that any revved-up bonus categories match your spending patterns.
Flexibility
- General travel cards offer great flexibility by letting you redeem miles or points for a range of items, including flights on any airline — an ideal option if you don’t favour a particular carrier.
- Co-branded cards only let you redeem points with select partners, however, they often feature airline or hotel-specific benefits and perks typically not available on cards that aren’t affiliated with a specific loyalty program (i.e. free checked bags and discounts on companion flights).
- Collecting points or miles can save you money on travel expenses (flights, hotels, car rentals, etc.)
- Comprehensive travel insurance packages
- Extra benefits such as VIP airport lounge access, priority boarding, complimentary checked baggage, etc.
- Generous welcome offers that allow you to earn introductory points
- Some cards will let you transfer your points to airline and hotel loyalty programs
Perks and benefits
- While not as eye-catching as a big welcome bonus, perks can save you lots of money and make flying or hotel stays more enjoyable.
- Important benefits to look out for include insurance (like medical, lost baggage, and hotel theft), rental car discounts, and airport lounge access.
- Evaluate the relevance and value of a card’s perks by anticipating how often you’ll actually use them.
Annual fee
- The majority of premium travel cards come with an annual fee averaging $120.
- You’ll want to assess whether the card’s rewards and money-saving perks (like travel insurance) will help you come out ahead and offer more value than the annual fee.
Eligibility requirements
- The top travel cards tend to have specific income and credit score requirements (typically around $60,000 and 650 respectively).
- Ensure you fit the requirements rather than applying blind because a hard check on your credit rating could decrease your score by up to 10 points. The best course of action is to research if a card has an income requirement and check your credit score before you apply (note: unlike when a card issuer or bank inquires about your score, checking your own credit score won’t impact it in any way).
What are the pros and cons of travel credit cards?
Pros
Cons
- Travel cards typically come with annual fees
- Point redemption flexibility may be affected by blackout periods
- You may have to spend a certain amount on the card to take advantage of welcome offers
- In some cases, you can lose your travel points/miles if your account is inactive for too long
How to apply for a travel credit card?
Check your eligibility
The first thing you'll want to do before applying for any new credit card is make sure you meet it's criteria for eligibility. While each card and provider may differ, in general you'll need:
- Canadian residency or citizenship
- A Canadian credit file
- Age of majority status in your home province or territory
- Annual income (this will depend on the card’s minimum income requirement)
Apply online
Once you're ready to apply online, simply click through the application portal on your provider's website and follow these steps:
- Read and confirm the details, terms, and conditions of your chosen card.
- Provide the personal information required (this usually includes your full name, date of birth, residential address, phone number, and email)
- Provide your Social Insurance Number
- Provide financial information such as your annual income and any recurring monthly expenses.
- Confirm your identity by providing photos of an original government-issued ID such as a passport or driver’s license
- Take an extra moment to look over the information you’ve supplied, then submit your application.
One important thing to note is that credit card applications almost always involve a hard credit check. While these will take a temporary bite out of your credit score, the damage is easy to bounce back from after a few months of responsible credit usage. Too many applications and credit checks at once, however, can cause serious damage to your credit and reduce your chances of being approved for credit cards, mortgages, or other loans in the future.
Redeeming travel credit card rewards
There are three main redemption models by which travel credit cards operate, with each having its own level of difficulty in terms of ease of use. Some rewards programs, like American Express Rewards, even let you access multiple models.
Consistent points programs
Consistent points programs live up to their name by offering unwavering point values. Regardless of the airline, hotel, destination, or time of the year, the value of each point remains the same.
The significant advantage of consistent points programs is their simplicity, making it easy to calculate the value of your rewards. However, it is worth highlighting that point values can fluctuate when redeemed for merchandise, gift cards, or statement credits.
Variable or flexible points programs
With variable or flexible points programs, points don't have a consistent value and change depending on various factors, such as travel destination and seasonality. These models are usually based on charts and tables that cardholders must consult to know the value of their points.
While these programs may introduce a degree of complexity into the redemption process, they offer a significant advantage: the potential to extract greater value out of each point. If you’re willing to invest time in research, they can offer unique and more generous redemption opportunities, like discounted business-class tickets or stays at ultra-premium hotels that might otherwise be out of reach. Additionally, you can maximize the value of your rewards by strategically planning your trips to specific destinations and during particular times of the year - a benefit not available when point values are consistent.
Point transfers
Point transfers allow you to transfer points from one rewards program to another and can be useful when trying to take advantage of multiple rewards programs. Not all point transfers are 1:1, so you will need to figure out the transfer ratio before moving ahead with the transfer.
General travel cards versus co-branded travel cards
General travel cards
General travel cards are not tied to any specific airline or frequent flyer program. Points earned on these cards can be redeemed for travel with a wide range of flight carriers and hotel chains. The major appeal of general travel cards lies in their flexibility, allowing you to use your points for flights from literally hundreds of carriers of your choice. If you don’t frequently fly on a particular airline and prioritize flexibility over the benefits associated airline loyalty status, such as like priority check-in, then general travel cards are a better fit for you.
It’s worth noting that when redeeming points on a general travel card, in some cases, you will need to use the credit card’s proprietary travel agency (i.e. BMO Points must be redeemed on BMORewards.com or with a BMO travel agent).
Best general travel credit cards in Canada
Scotiabank Gold American Express
Co-branded travel cards
Co-branded credit cards are connected to a specific frequent flyer or loyalty program (e.g., Aeroplan, Air Miles, or Marriott Bonvoy), and are a testament to the old adage “loyalty pays.”
These cards can offer excellent value by allowing you to earn bonus rewards or discounts when you use the card at retailers, airlines, or hotels partnered with the co-branded credit card. In many cases, these cards also provide benefits like priority check-in, complimentary hotel stays, or free checked bags.
While these cards may lack flexibility since the points you earn can only be redeemed from one of the co-branded card’s partners, they can be the right choice for you if the card is associated with your favourite airline, hotel program, or retail network.
Best co-branded credit cards in Canada:
Marriott Bonvoy Card from American Express
WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard
Travel credit cards versus cash back credit cards
Unlike travel cards, which use a point-based reward system, cash back cards offer a percentage of cash back, especially when you use them to make specific types of purchases. Depending on the provider and card, you'll be free to redeem your cash back as a statement credit, use it to buy gift cards or merchandise, or put it into a savings account.
If you're wondering whether a travel rewards card or a cash back card is the better choice, consider your current lifestyle and what you like to spend money on. If you're currently travelling a lot and would only like to use your rewards on expenses like flights, accommodations, and car rentals, a travel rewards card will give you the most bang for your buck as these cards typically offer higher point values in that category.
If, however, you're going to be using the card for a wider variety of purchases, a solidly earning cash back card may be the better bet. These cards usually offer higher points in a wider variety of categories, giving you the flexibility to earn and redeem in different areas like groceries, gas, recurring bills, and more.
Common perks found on travel cards
When choosing a travel credit card, don't just focus on the welcome bonus and points/miles. Most travel cards also come with extra perks and benefits, which could sway your decision between two equally valuable cards. Some common perks to look out for include:
Airport perks
Many travel credit cards offer a range of perks to enhance your air travel experience. These perks can include access to VIP lounges, complimentary checked baggage, priority boarding, and higher priority for seat upgrades. Additional benefits may encompass access to expedited security lanes (helping you get to your gate faster), and even complimentary valet service.
No foreign transaction fees
One of the significant advantages of some travel credit cards is their elimination of foreign transaction fees. These fees can quickly add up when you're using your credit card abroad, but with the right travel credit card, you can avoid them altogether. This means you can make international purchases and travel with peace of mind, knowing that you won't incur additional charges for currency conversion. Whether you are shopping, dining, or booking accommodations overseas, a travel card without foreign transaction fees can save you money.
Hotel perks
Your travel credit card continues to provide benefits when you reach your hotel destination. For example, the Marriott Bonvoy American Express card allows users to attain Gold Elite Status after using the card for ten stays at any of their hotels. At this level, cardholders can enjoy extra bonus points, late check-out, enhanced in-room internet service, and room upgrades (subject to availability). In addition, members gain access to exclusive room rates and a reservation guarantee.
Travel insurance
While many of us will happily devote endless hours to deciding what attractions and restaurants to hit on an upcoming vacation, few of us give as much attention to another crucial element of a successful trip: travel insurance.
Luckily, there are many travel credit cards (especially premium cards that carry an annual fee) that offer travel insurance as a key perk. While the variety, monetary amounts, and eligibility qualifications (like age) tend to vary, overall a travel credit card’s insurance offerings can be one of its most attractive benefits. That’s because buying travel insurance on your own could otherwise cost you around 4% to 10% of your total trip, meaning that a comprehensive insurance package could save you hundreds of dollars. Of course, those savings can exponentially increase if you need to make a claim.
Many of the best travel credit cards in Canada offer more than a dozen types of insurance, ranging from hotel burglary to trip interruption and delayed baggage coverage. The card and coverage that works best for you will depend on your travel needs.
Here’s a look at some of the main types of insurance:
Out-of-Province travel emergency medical
Travel accident coverage
Travel interruption coverage
Flight delay insurance
Lost / delayed baggage
Rental car collision loss / damage
Hotel / motel burglary
Important things to know about travel insurance
To get the most out of your credit card travel insurance, it’s vital to read the fine print. There’s an array of exclusions, eligibility requirements, and compensation amounts. Here are some key points:
- For the insurance to kick in, requirements vary. You’ll usually need to charge anywhere from 75% to 100% of the cost of your trip to your card.
- As noted above, coverage only lasts for a specific number of days depending on your age. Those 65 and older are usually only offered very limited (if any) coverage. You’ll need to pay out of pocket for extra travel days.
- Most credit card insurance plans will cover not only the policyholder but also eligible travel companions like a spouse and dependent children. Check with your provider who is covered and for what specific monetary amounts.
- Time can be crucial when making a claim. For example, many companies insist on being alerted beforehand (unless in extremely urgent circumstances) of any medical procedures like major surgeries. Many also have a set period in which a claim must be made, such as within three months of the event, or coverage will be forfeited.